Pinterest collaborative boards - what are they?

Collaborative boards are a brilliant way to build followers. You can ask to join an existing board or set up one yourself.

Not sure what a collaborative board is, how to find one or how to join? Download my free cheat sheet here. A collaborative board is what it sounds like. A board where more than one person can pin to it. You have to apply to be able to pin to the board and most admins are pretty cagey about who they allow in, to minimise trolling or over–promoting, so I’ve prepared a free cheat sheet which includes some tips on how to find relevant collaborative boards and help maximise the likelihood of your request being accepted. An active collaborative board is a quick way to find lots of potential followers, as long as your content is relevant. Be warned that you need to make sure your board is ready for visitors. Firstly, the board’s admin will check out your board to see if you’re going to be a good fit and secondly anyone who does come across to your board they won’t join if there’s not enough there to entice them. She recommends 12 good quality pins minimum on our board before you ask to be included in a collaborative board.

How might collaborative boards work for writers? In the first instance, look for boards that are likely to be readers of the sort of books that you write. If you write in a particular historical period then look for boards that cover that era, but bear in mind that someone who is a Regency aficionado may not be a Regency crime novel or Regency romance novel aficionado. Don’t just promote your book. Be involved with the spirit of the board. What might that be? Follow the board for a while to suss it out. Make some comments on pins before you plunge in and pin. Keep your overt promotion as close to zero as you can. You are there to be interesting and add value, and that will encourage people to check you out and follow your board. I know it sounds daft to say don't sell and people will buy from you, and it's not that simple but that's how social media works. If you add value they will want to find out more about you.They will click on your link and connect. From there they will decide if they want to engage more. In short, do they want to join your party. The more your force it, the more they will run away.